Youth Support Worker

As a Youth Support Worker, you will work directly with young people aged 13-18 (up to 25 for those with special educational needs or disabilities). Your role will involve engaging with young people at the new youth club, helping them to relax, have fun, join in and develop personal and social skills through a variety of creative activities.

You will be working in collaboration with the Icon team and external providers, ensuring that all activities align with the youth club's core values of creativity, inclusivity and empowerment.

Key Responsibilities

· Engagement with Young People:
Establish positive relationships with young people attending the youth club, supporting their development and encouraging active participation in the club's activities.

· Activity Delivery:
Plan, deliver, and support youth work activities and programmes that promote personal, social, and creative development. This could include arts and crafts, drama workshops, sports, and life skills sessions.

· Support and Mentorship:
Offer guidance and support to young people facing challenges. Be a positive role model, encouraging young people to make constructive choices and signposting them to additional support, as needed.

· Inclusivity and Accessibility:
Work to ensure that all activities are accessible and inclusive, particularly for young people who may face barriers such as disabilities, socio-economic challenges or mental health issues.

· Collaboration with Partners:
Collaborate with other Icon Theatre staff, freelance artists, volunteers, and external organisations to create engaging programmes that meet the needs of the young people.

· Setup and Pack Down:
Be responsible for setting up and packing down all equipment, resources, and spaces required for activities. Ensure all materials are properly stored, and that the environment is clean, safe, and ready for the next session.

· Maintain a Clean and Safe Space:
Ensure that the youth club environment is clean, tidy, and safe at all times. This includes checking equipment, addressing any safety hazards, and making sure spaces meet health and safety standards.

· Safeguarding:
Always ensure the safety and wellbeing of young people, adhering to Icon Theatre's safeguarding policies and procedures. Complete any necessary safeguarding training as required.

· Monitoring and Evaluation:
Support the recording of attendance, monitor engagement, and provide feedback on activities. Work with the Creative Engagement Manager to evaluate the impact of the club on participants and ensure continual improvement.

· Demonstrated experience working with young people aged 13-18 in a youth work, social care, arts or community setting.

· Good communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with and inspire young people.

· A commitment to creating an inclusive environment that welcomes young people from all backgrounds, including those who face barriers.

· Experience in planning and delivering youth work activities.

· Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.

· Understanding of safeguarding and child protection practices and policies, with a commitment to ensuring the safety of young people.

· Flexibility to work evening and weekend sessions as required.

· A positive, can-do attitude and a passion for making a difference in young people's lives.

Desirable

· Experience working with young people who have special educational needs and/or disabilities.

· Experience in using creative arts (drama, music, art) to engage young people.

· Understanding of the local community in Medway and the specific challenges young people face.

· Relevant qualifications in youth work or a related field (e.g., Level 2/3 Youth Work Qualification).

· Full driving license and access to a vehicle.